SCHOOL leaders’ unions could encourage their members to quit as Ofsted inspectors unless changes are made to the proposed inspection reforms.

The Association of School & College Leaders and the National Association of Head Teachers  have threatened to take the unprecedented step in the autumn term if there are no changes to the timescale for inspection reform or to the five-point grading scale.

In a letter to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson and Ofsted chief inspector Sir Martyn Oliver, the unions said the proposed action underlines the strength of feeling about the reforms.

Under the plans set out in February, schools in England could be graded across eight to 10 areas of a provision using a colour-coded five-point scale.

The unions have warned that the intention to start inspecting under a new system this autumn is “entirely unacceptable” and it will negatively affect staff’s wellbeing and mental health.

Ofsted has said it will give more time to analyse responses to a consultation on the proposed inspection reforms to improve the final approach.